The day the children break up for the Christmas holidays is edging ever closer and with that comes their ever-increasing excitement. This month we’ve been sharing how you can create more balance in the lead up to the festivities and today is no exception. Here is our planning method which will allow you to reduce your stress and enjoy the day.

1. Use A SINGLE Calendar

It is not uncommon for families to have multiple calendars in use at one time. However, it’s crucial that there is a SINGLE master calendar for the family. If you don’t already have one, it’s time to create it. Whether you choose a paper or online option doesn’t matter too much. However, an online one will allow you to sync existing calendars and add things wherever you are.

Once you have this calendar in place, add all the existing events you have in the lead up to Christmas. This might include events such as your child’s school play, a Christmas dinner with colleagues, meetings, etc. For what it’s worth, Christmas Jumper Day is Thursday 8th December 2022. Many schools take part in this! If you read our last blog post, then you’ll also know to schedule rest breaks too, so you don’t become overwhelmed.

2. Make A List Of All The Tasks

Next, make a list of all the other tasks you need to do in your Christmas preparations. For example, you might need to buy a Christmas tree or dig out one from the loft. Christmas cards will probably need sending early this year due to postal strikes. Then there’s the food and present shopping. Perhaps you need to source extra chairs, so Auntie Mabel doesn’t have to perch on a wonky stool!

3. Break Down Larger Tasks

Some of these tasks might feel overwhelming or much larger than others. Where possible, break these down into smaller chunks. For example, you can break down ‘shopping for presents’ into making a list of what you want to buy each person, and the different locations you’ll need to visit to purchase them such as the town centre, retail parks, and online.

4. Timely Tasks

The next step is to put the tasks in order of when they need to be done. Some of them will have a specific date when they need to be done or will have a short time window, such as the food shop, whereas others will have more flexibility. Remember that even those with flexibility may well need to be done in a specific order, such as buying presents before you can wrap them!

5. Create Deadlines

Now it’s time to use your calendar. Start with those tasks that have less flexibility and schedule them in. You can then work in the other tasks around these. Remember to create the balance that works for you. If you need a bit of time pressure to motivate you, then schedule with this in mind. However, make sure you leave some space – life happens, people catch bugs, and you don’t want to add even more stress. You still want room to breathe!

Once you’ve followed these steps, all you need to do is ACTION it! Keep checking your diary and ticking off the tasks. Then, there’s only one thing left you need to do – relax and enjoy your more balanced Christmas!

If you find you need help in creating more balance in your life, then get in touch to find out more about how I can help.

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